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Cheteshwar Pujara has expressed confidence in Virat Kohli's ability to perform well in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-2025. Despite concerns about Kohli's recent form in Test cricket, Cheteshwar Pujara believes that the Indian star's past success in Australian conditions will give him the confidence to excel. Pujara has praised Kohli's discipline and hard work, acknowledging the immense expectations placed on him. This series will be particularly crucial for Kohli as he embarks on his fifth tour of Australia.
The amount of runs Virat Kohli has scored in Australia speaks for itself: Cheteshwar Pujara
"Yes, it will definitely help him. The amount of runs he has scored in Australia speaks for itself. Not just in Australia, but across formats, he's always been a player with high expectations placed on him. The number of matches he plays takes a toll. Over time, we've seen what an incredible fielder and athlete he is-always hardworking and consistent. However, when you play so much cricket without adequate breaks, your body and concentration levels naturally dip," Pujara said on the Star Sports Press Room show.
In 2024, Virat Kohli played six Test matches, scoring a mere 250 runs at an average of 22.72, significantly lower than his career average of 50. His struggles against spin bowling, particularly noticeable since 2020, have been evident. His average in India has dropped from 72.45 (2013-2019) to 32.86, with spin bowlers accounting for 24 of his 57 dismissals during this period.
Pujara believes that a well-rested Kohli will be more determined than ever to perform. He noted that Kohli thrives under pressure and tends to excel when opposition teams attempt to unsettle him.
"Now that he's had some rest, he's in a much better place mentally and physically. He thrives on competition and loves to express himself on the field. In Australian conditions, if the opposition tries to unsettle him, he's the kind of player who will respond strongly and channel that into his performance. That approach has been key to his success since the beginning of his career," he further stated.
Kohli boasts an impressive record in Australia, having amassed 1352 runs in 13 matches at an average of 54.08. His tally includes six centuries and four half-centuries. Pujara emphasised that if Kohli can score a century in the series, it would boost his confidence and set the tone for a successful tour.
"The first couple of Test matches will be crucial. Spending time at the crease will be essential for him to get into the rhythm. He knows his game inside out and is very capable of delivering when it matters. His preparation has always been top-notch, and he leads by example. If he gets a solid start, scores a 50 or 60, and converts it into a hundred, he could have an outstanding series," Pujara concluded.
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India's squad for Border-Gavaskar Trophy:
Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Devdutt Padikkal.
Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Yash Dayal.
